Marc Pelosi's impressive performances as captain of the USA U-17 national team at last summer's FIFA U-17 World Cup paid off. The midfielder signed with Liverpool FC Wednesday and will join the Reds' Academy, according to the club's website.

"We're determined to identify the best possible talent globally and I'm delighted we've been able to to bring Marc in to the club," Liverpool Academy director Frank McParland said.

Pelosi, a native of Sunnyvale, Calif., has represented the U.S. at various levels. He appeared 28 times for the U-17 team, scoring eight goals.

The 17-year-old playmaker was born in Germany and it is unclear if he will to wait until he turns 18 (on June 17) to play for Liverpool's first team. FIFA rules prohibit players under 18 from playing competitive games for a club outside of their home country. If he secures an EU passport between now and then, he could debut for the Reds sometime this season.